Chronic heart disease and its management

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Cardiology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of illness and death in aging dogs and cats.
• Cardiac and vascular conditions frequently complicate the management of other health issues in geriatric pets.
• Aging significantly impacts the circulatory system, predisposing animals to various disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the physiological effects of aging on the canine and feline circulatory system.
• To discuss common cardiovascular disorders observed in geriatric dogs and cats.
• To highlight specific conditions such as feline myocardial disorders, hypertension, degenerative valvular disease, and dilated cardiomyopathy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of current knowledge on geriatric cardiovascular diseases in companion animals.
• Discussion of age-related changes in the cardiovascular system.
• Identification and description of prevalent cardiac and vascular pathologies.

Main Results:

• Aging alters cardiovascular function, increasing susceptibility to disease.
• Common feline conditions include myocardial disorders and hypertension.
• Prevalent canine disorders include degenerative valvular disease and dilated cardiomyopathy.

Conclusions:

• Understanding age-related cardiovascular changes is crucial for geriatric pet care.
• Prompt diagnosis and management of cardiovascular diseases improve outcomes for older dogs and cats.
• This review serves as a guide to common cardiovascular challenges in aging companion animals.